Australian Cricket stands head and shoulders above any other cricketing nation, but will this dominance continue and if so, for how long? How are the other nations shaping up after a two month long tournament?
On an off the field, the 2007 Cricket World Cup has been plagued with controversy that could blacken the sport. The off-field dramas including the ticketing prices, the length of the tournament, the death of Pakistani Coach Bob Woolmer have stolen the headlines from the game of cricket itself.
This world cup will be marked as a changing of the guard, as a number of coaches are retiring, key players, legends of the game, marred with turmoil and controversy leaving a rather bitter taste in the ICC’s mouths.
Was the tournament too long and why did the cricket not live up to everyone’s general expectations?
Australia are to take full credit and much of the attention of this world cup as noted above has been on ‘other dramas’. They totally and utterly desimated every opponent with class and charisma. Every player stood up and was counted for in same way, shape or form.
Matthew Hayden’s domination was matched by Glenn McGrath’s pure genius ability to bowl and leave the game on top of the world as player of the tournament.
With John Buchnanan retiring as Australian Coach, a change of the guard will take place as Tim Neilson steps into the role.
McGrath has a long list of replacements ready to take his place including the returning Brett Lee, Stuart Clark, Mitchell Johnson and Ben Hilfenhaus. All are more than capable to add depth to Australia’s bowling but will have enormous shoes to fill.
Nathan Bracken and Shaun Tait have stood up and are to be credited for the excellent bowling in this cup and Bradley Hogg, likewise.
At the next World Cup Australia will not have the likes of McGrath, Hayden, Adam Gilchrist or Brad Hogg. So consider this as a possible team to compete in the 2011 world cup:
Brad Hodge
Michael Hussey
Ricky Ponting
Michael Clarke
Andrew Symonds
Brad Haddin
Adam Voges
Brett Lee
Nathan Bracken
Ben Hilfenhaus
Shaun Tait
Also: Mitchell Johnson, Shane Watson, Dan Cullen, Stuart Clark
Note that there is no front-line spinner in this attack as there is also no Shane Watson. I have preferred to go with four genuine pace bowlers spearheaded by Tait and Lee with the added advantage of Bracken and Hilfenhaus. To fill the last quota Andrew Symonds, Michael Clarke, Adam Voges and Brad Hodge can become the part-time spinners, giving Australia more balance and variety in their attack.
The batting is equally impressive with depth as the powerful and promising Adam Voges at number seven behind Brad Haddin.
Australia should continue to dominate but their opponents are starting to build. If England can sort themselves out, they have a promising team in the making.
Likewise Sri Lanka, South Africa and Pakistan.
New Zealand will go through some more tough times with the retirements of Stephen Fleming and Shane Bond imminent and will probably occur before 2011.
India are all out of sorts again as they cannot choose eleven players yet alone an administration that supports both players and coaching staff. They need bowlers for a start and confidence.
Too much is asked of Indian Cricket and lives (as we saw with Woolmer) are placed on the line for success or failure.
Who would want to coach a cricket team after this year’s world cup or even become an administrator?
Let’s get on with playing the game of cricket and keep the bitching politics off the headlines and more of the on-field success taking credit for the game of cricket.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Mental Toughness will make it a hat-trick
Australia totally and utterly destroyed South Africa last night and exposed the weak mental toughness that the South Africans have. Australia always have the edge over South Africa and captain Graeme Smith in particular.
Smith set the tone attempting to slog Bracken in the third over only to be bowled. This single act sums up the stronghold Australia has over South Africa.
To be 5/27 in a semi-final, South Africa looked totally out of their depth and scared in a semi final when they were only two weeks ago ranked the number one team. Credit must be given to the Australian bowling attack spearheaded by Glenn McGrath who grabbed match honours once again.
McGrath took the crucial wickets of Kallis, Prince and Boucher, while Bracken sent the Captain packing. McGrath will leave the game on top of the world, bowling the best he has bowled in years which is a true testament to the longevity of his career, cunning length and line bowling that proves consistency is key.
Shaun Tait has been born and last night took impressive caught behind dismissals with De Villiers, Gibbs and Hall looking out of depth and scared against the extra pace. Again, Brad Hogg was impressive capturing 1/24 (10) and could have had a few more scalps.
Australia walk into the final with their bottom three batsmen (Bracken, McGrath and Tait) not having to pick up the bat. Sri Lanka will undoubtedly pumped up to defeat the favourites but you can’t go past Australia.
Ponting’s men will be switched on and be giving 150% to send Glenn McGrath out a winner. I can’t see the Sri Lankans matching it with the Australians.
COME ON AUSSIE… COME ON!
Smith set the tone attempting to slog Bracken in the third over only to be bowled. This single act sums up the stronghold Australia has over South Africa.
To be 5/27 in a semi-final, South Africa looked totally out of their depth and scared in a semi final when they were only two weeks ago ranked the number one team. Credit must be given to the Australian bowling attack spearheaded by Glenn McGrath who grabbed match honours once again.
McGrath took the crucial wickets of Kallis, Prince and Boucher, while Bracken sent the Captain packing. McGrath will leave the game on top of the world, bowling the best he has bowled in years which is a true testament to the longevity of his career, cunning length and line bowling that proves consistency is key.
Shaun Tait has been born and last night took impressive caught behind dismissals with De Villiers, Gibbs and Hall looking out of depth and scared against the extra pace. Again, Brad Hogg was impressive capturing 1/24 (10) and could have had a few more scalps.
Australia walk into the final with their bottom three batsmen (Bracken, McGrath and Tait) not having to pick up the bat. Sri Lanka will undoubtedly pumped up to defeat the favourites but you can’t go past Australia.
Ponting’s men will be switched on and be giving 150% to send Glenn McGrath out a winner. I can’t see the Sri Lankans matching it with the Australians.
COME ON AUSSIE… COME ON!
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
SALARY CAP INEQUALITIES
I might sound like a winger because the St George Illawarra Dragons are having a woeful start to the season. With injuries to key players, the loss of Trent Barrett and the impact of the salary cap, the Dragons just don’t have depth or experience on the field to be competitive in the NRL.
In the Round 7 clash against the Roosters, the Dragons had no Mark Gasnier, Simon Woolford, Jason Ryles or Dean Young and Matthew Head is out of sorts playing Premier League. Add the loss of Shaun Timmins, Trent Barrett, Luke Bailey and some of the up and comers Daryl Millard, Aaron Gorrell and Clint Greenshields on the back of the 2006, so whats left and who is playing?
Josh and Brett Morris are doing a sterling effort as only twenty year olds, but the exposure of Richard Williams, Tony Ellis, Rangi Chase, Tom Hewitt, Chase Stanley and the like have people wondering who are these kids?
Sure they have ability and promise but they are too young to be playing first grade and be expected to perform. Nathan Brown has no experienced players or older heads to lift the boys around them.
Once these kids have exposure to the top grade a club will the struggle to keep them the following year. Because of the injuries to key players, i.e Mark Gasnier and Simon Woolford then youngsters are exposed to first grade when they shouldn’t be.
While they are exposed to the top grade they now demand that they stay there, get paid more money and consequently leave, go to another club and play first grade becoming regular players. Daniel Holdsworth and Daryl Millard are now at the Bulldogs who came through the Dragons ranks.
Why is it though that some teams can continue to be successful and the salary cap does not affect their performance?
The Broncos have been a dominant team, in/or around the fringes of the premiership for fifiteen seasons. Maybe its lifestyle, maybe the Dragons have deep rooted problems attracting players.
Why would you want to train in two locations an hour and a half apart on alternate days?
A base needs to be established and possibly the salary cap needs to be revisited…
In the Round 7 clash against the Roosters, the Dragons had no Mark Gasnier, Simon Woolford, Jason Ryles or Dean Young and Matthew Head is out of sorts playing Premier League. Add the loss of Shaun Timmins, Trent Barrett, Luke Bailey and some of the up and comers Daryl Millard, Aaron Gorrell and Clint Greenshields on the back of the 2006, so whats left and who is playing?
Josh and Brett Morris are doing a sterling effort as only twenty year olds, but the exposure of Richard Williams, Tony Ellis, Rangi Chase, Tom Hewitt, Chase Stanley and the like have people wondering who are these kids?
Sure they have ability and promise but they are too young to be playing first grade and be expected to perform. Nathan Brown has no experienced players or older heads to lift the boys around them.
Once these kids have exposure to the top grade a club will the struggle to keep them the following year. Because of the injuries to key players, i.e Mark Gasnier and Simon Woolford then youngsters are exposed to first grade when they shouldn’t be.
While they are exposed to the top grade they now demand that they stay there, get paid more money and consequently leave, go to another club and play first grade becoming regular players. Daniel Holdsworth and Daryl Millard are now at the Bulldogs who came through the Dragons ranks.
Why is it though that some teams can continue to be successful and the salary cap does not affect their performance?
The Broncos have been a dominant team, in/or around the fringes of the premiership for fifiteen seasons. Maybe its lifestyle, maybe the Dragons have deep rooted problems attracting players.
Why would you want to train in two locations an hour and a half apart on alternate days?
A base needs to be established and possibly the salary cap needs to be revisited…
Monday, April 23, 2007
Then there were four
The Cricket World Cup is now in its final week. A time we thought might never come, after a long and at times tideous two month campaign.
Nevertheless the business end of the cup is upon us as the world's eyes will focus on four - Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and Sri Lanka. Probably the four most deserving teams to have made the finals after 48 matches, 16 teams over 50 days of cricket to determine the make-up of the finals mix.
Semi Final 1: New Zealand v. Sri Lanka
An expected bouncy wicket for the first semi final will play into the hands of two key bowlers. Bond, Shane Bond and Slinga Lasith Malinga will be looking to dominate the Sabina track.
New Zealand may choose in fact to bowl as they are keen chasers and if Shane Bond is on song, it could be devestating. Likewise, Lasith Malinga will be itching to get his hands on the ball, as he seems to have an edge over New Zealander's who struggle against the faster skidding ball.
In the past New Zealand batsmen have struggled against Malinga and Australian Brett Lee. Malinga has the back-up in Chaminda Vaas, one of the best bowlers in the modern game and of course Muttiah Muralidaran. This attack is formidable and ricals only the Australian bowling brigade.
New Zealand will rely heavily on Bond, but he can be assisted by Daniel Vettori and (if picked) Jayten Patel. I would be picking the two spinners because the New Zealander's faster bowlers are not as convincing.
Whether Matthew Mason, James Franklin or Mark Gillespe are picked, will be decided on Jacob Oram's fitness. Oram plays an integral role with both bat and ball and I see benefits to Mark Gillespe being the second bowler to Bond, but the selectors will probably go with Franklin.
The batting will also be crucial to the result with Sanath Jayasuriya keen to end his career on a high note and will be going all guns blazing. Kumar Sangakarra has had a quite tournament by his standards, which is a worrying sign as the finals may be his time.
Sri Lanka's stregth lies in its middle order with Mahela Jayawardene, Russell Arnold, Tillekeratne Dilshan and Chamara Silva. Silva is the one who impresses me most and looks a real star for the future.
New Zealand's batsmen could do anything. Hot one day, cold the next.
Stephen Fleming needs runs for his team to score runs and he will be looking for a positive start. Ricky Taylor, Craig McMillan, Scott Styris and Jacob Oram need to post fortys or half century's to be competitive.
Overall the star studded bowling attack and depth of batting should see Sri Lanka qualify for the grand final.
Semi Final 2: Australia v. South Africa
De ja vu? But what will the result be this time. Australia have the edge over South Africa, thrashing them in the earlier rounds of the competition.
Australia have stood head and shoulders above every team at this world cup, and not making the final would be a failure in the team's books. Ricky Ponting and Graeme Smith are the keys for mind both in their leadership and as batsmen, their teams rely on their skippers to have big games for their teams to succeed.
Ponting has the mental toughness, as a Captain, batsmen and big match player. His determination is unrivalled and he has the players to back his decissions.
Nevertheless South Africa have chased down 400 against Australia and won, so there will be some concern in the minds of the Australians.
Matthew Hayden is again key at the top of the order, scoring 580 runs with a highest score of 158 including four centuries in this years would cup at an average of 82.85. Ponting is not far behind him and Adam Gilchrist is still really to fire.
Australia's middle order looks solid with Michael Clarke's consistency, Andrew Symonds big hitting that can turn an innings on its head, Michael Hussey's unquestionable ability in the middle order and Shane Watson can also ignite some fireworks.
Suprisingly Nathan Bracken, Glen McGrath and Shaun Tait have not had to put the pads on once in this world cup, a testament to their top order.
The top class batting has been matched by impecable bowling. Glen McGrath will retire on top of his game.
Australia's fast bowler of the last decade has saved his best performances for the cup, becoming the leading wicket-taker with 22 wickets at 14 and he will leave the games as the highest world cup wicket-taker of all time.
McGrath has been backed up in his fast bowling trio by Shaun Tait. Despite going for a few runs , Tait can devistate attackes with his pace, bounce and skid and looks devestating in full flight. Likewise Nathan Bracken has been consistent and provides the variety in this trio, not allowing a batsmen to get settled.
Brad Hogg caps off the variety of this attack having a memorable world cup. Arguably Australia's best bowler of the tournament, Hogg has 19 wickets at 15.21.
Australia has the leading wicket-taker and run scorer. Interestingly 12 months ago Glen McGrath, Matthew Hayden and even Brad Hogg were not guranteed positions in Australia's one day team and today there are the key ingriedients to this team.
South Africa will depend on their top four to score the bulk of their runs. Graeme Smith needs to attack the quicker bowlers and A B de Villiers needs to follow his skipped.
De Villiers has struggled against the Australians. Jacques Kallis needs to stand up and be counted, score runs at a quicker rate than he usually does, likewise Herschelle Gibbs who can be a match winner.
South Africa have stregth in their middle order with Mark Boucher, Justin Kemp and Shaun Pollock.
The bowling is what lets South Africa down. Pollock is not the bowler he was and Makhaya Ntini has struggled to impact on the fast bowler friendly wickets.
Charl Langeveldt, Andre Nel or Andrew Hall could have that other position which should go to Nel who can get under the Australian's skin and offers more than the other options.
No quality front line spinner lets down the South Africans who crave a variety, change-up bowler. Their bowling is what lets down the Proteas as I see the game going the way of the Australians.
We will have to see what happenes this week but Australia should knock off the Proteas and meet Sri Lanka in the grand final. All will be revealed in 96 hours.
Nevertheless the business end of the cup is upon us as the world's eyes will focus on four - Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and Sri Lanka. Probably the four most deserving teams to have made the finals after 48 matches, 16 teams over 50 days of cricket to determine the make-up of the finals mix.
Semi Final 1: New Zealand v. Sri Lanka
An expected bouncy wicket for the first semi final will play into the hands of two key bowlers. Bond, Shane Bond and Slinga Lasith Malinga will be looking to dominate the Sabina track.
New Zealand may choose in fact to bowl as they are keen chasers and if Shane Bond is on song, it could be devestating. Likewise, Lasith Malinga will be itching to get his hands on the ball, as he seems to have an edge over New Zealander's who struggle against the faster skidding ball.
In the past New Zealand batsmen have struggled against Malinga and Australian Brett Lee. Malinga has the back-up in Chaminda Vaas, one of the best bowlers in the modern game and of course Muttiah Muralidaran. This attack is formidable and ricals only the Australian bowling brigade.
New Zealand will rely heavily on Bond, but he can be assisted by Daniel Vettori and (if picked) Jayten Patel. I would be picking the two spinners because the New Zealander's faster bowlers are not as convincing.
Whether Matthew Mason, James Franklin or Mark Gillespe are picked, will be decided on Jacob Oram's fitness. Oram plays an integral role with both bat and ball and I see benefits to Mark Gillespe being the second bowler to Bond, but the selectors will probably go with Franklin.
The batting will also be crucial to the result with Sanath Jayasuriya keen to end his career on a high note and will be going all guns blazing. Kumar Sangakarra has had a quite tournament by his standards, which is a worrying sign as the finals may be his time.
Sri Lanka's stregth lies in its middle order with Mahela Jayawardene, Russell Arnold, Tillekeratne Dilshan and Chamara Silva. Silva is the one who impresses me most and looks a real star for the future.
New Zealand's batsmen could do anything. Hot one day, cold the next.
Stephen Fleming needs runs for his team to score runs and he will be looking for a positive start. Ricky Taylor, Craig McMillan, Scott Styris and Jacob Oram need to post fortys or half century's to be competitive.
Overall the star studded bowling attack and depth of batting should see Sri Lanka qualify for the grand final.
Semi Final 2: Australia v. South Africa
De ja vu? But what will the result be this time. Australia have the edge over South Africa, thrashing them in the earlier rounds of the competition.
Australia have stood head and shoulders above every team at this world cup, and not making the final would be a failure in the team's books. Ricky Ponting and Graeme Smith are the keys for mind both in their leadership and as batsmen, their teams rely on their skippers to have big games for their teams to succeed.
Ponting has the mental toughness, as a Captain, batsmen and big match player. His determination is unrivalled and he has the players to back his decissions.
Nevertheless South Africa have chased down 400 against Australia and won, so there will be some concern in the minds of the Australians.
Matthew Hayden is again key at the top of the order, scoring 580 runs with a highest score of 158 including four centuries in this years would cup at an average of 82.85. Ponting is not far behind him and Adam Gilchrist is still really to fire.
Australia's middle order looks solid with Michael Clarke's consistency, Andrew Symonds big hitting that can turn an innings on its head, Michael Hussey's unquestionable ability in the middle order and Shane Watson can also ignite some fireworks.
Suprisingly Nathan Bracken, Glen McGrath and Shaun Tait have not had to put the pads on once in this world cup, a testament to their top order.
The top class batting has been matched by impecable bowling. Glen McGrath will retire on top of his game.
Australia's fast bowler of the last decade has saved his best performances for the cup, becoming the leading wicket-taker with 22 wickets at 14 and he will leave the games as the highest world cup wicket-taker of all time.
McGrath has been backed up in his fast bowling trio by Shaun Tait. Despite going for a few runs , Tait can devistate attackes with his pace, bounce and skid and looks devestating in full flight. Likewise Nathan Bracken has been consistent and provides the variety in this trio, not allowing a batsmen to get settled.
Brad Hogg caps off the variety of this attack having a memorable world cup. Arguably Australia's best bowler of the tournament, Hogg has 19 wickets at 15.21.
Australia has the leading wicket-taker and run scorer. Interestingly 12 months ago Glen McGrath, Matthew Hayden and even Brad Hogg were not guranteed positions in Australia's one day team and today there are the key ingriedients to this team.
South Africa will depend on their top four to score the bulk of their runs. Graeme Smith needs to attack the quicker bowlers and A B de Villiers needs to follow his skipped.
De Villiers has struggled against the Australians. Jacques Kallis needs to stand up and be counted, score runs at a quicker rate than he usually does, likewise Herschelle Gibbs who can be a match winner.
South Africa have stregth in their middle order with Mark Boucher, Justin Kemp and Shaun Pollock.
The bowling is what lets South Africa down. Pollock is not the bowler he was and Makhaya Ntini has struggled to impact on the fast bowler friendly wickets.
Charl Langeveldt, Andre Nel or Andrew Hall could have that other position which should go to Nel who can get under the Australian's skin and offers more than the other options.
No quality front line spinner lets down the South Africans who crave a variety, change-up bowler. Their bowling is what lets down the Proteas as I see the game going the way of the Australians.
We will have to see what happenes this week but Australia should knock off the Proteas and meet Sri Lanka in the grand final. All will be revealed in 96 hours.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Talking FM changes its TUNE
So audiences now demand comic relief and the end of the day. Driving home, sitting on a bus or riding in an overcrowded train, people don't want music they want The Akmal Show, Hamish & Andy or Will & Lehmo.
Is there now much difference between and FM or AM drive-time shift? They both have talk, talkback and less and less music.
Perhaps its the ipod revolution, myspace and the internet that is allowing audiences to get their own music and not rely on the good old wireless, but why, now does each younger audience music station have a talk-based drive shift?
Music countdowns come-back in during the night-time and the philosophy seems to be less talk, more music while you are at work. Will any of the FM leaders restore a music based format?
The quality of the talent in drive has also picked up with the untested and somewhat politically incorrect comic Akmal Saleh with Kate Ritchie on NOVA. 2DAY have networked the popular Hamish and Andy duo which seems to have the FM drive momentum.
Triple M have answered the cry on April 2, installing former Glass House and Triple J breakfast presenter Wil Anderson to their drive shift with former SAFM breakfast anchor Anthony 'Lehmo' Lehman.
In the case of the first two, Akmal and Hamish&Andy will be more comic and probably stupid, while Wil and Lehmo will focus on political and news satire.
But what is funny?
In the aftermath of the University Massacre in the United States last week, Will and Lehmo responded by asking their audience to call in and share who in their office would be the most likely candidate to perform a massacre?
Comedy or Distaste?
Say no more... YOU decide
Is there now much difference between and FM or AM drive-time shift? They both have talk, talkback and less and less music.
Perhaps its the ipod revolution, myspace and the internet that is allowing audiences to get their own music and not rely on the good old wireless, but why, now does each younger audience music station have a talk-based drive shift?
Music countdowns come-back in during the night-time and the philosophy seems to be less talk, more music while you are at work. Will any of the FM leaders restore a music based format?
The quality of the talent in drive has also picked up with the untested and somewhat politically incorrect comic Akmal Saleh with Kate Ritchie on NOVA. 2DAY have networked the popular Hamish and Andy duo which seems to have the FM drive momentum.
Triple M have answered the cry on April 2, installing former Glass House and Triple J breakfast presenter Wil Anderson to their drive shift with former SAFM breakfast anchor Anthony 'Lehmo' Lehman.
In the case of the first two, Akmal and Hamish&Andy will be more comic and probably stupid, while Wil and Lehmo will focus on political and news satire.
But what is funny?
In the aftermath of the University Massacre in the United States last week, Will and Lehmo responded by asking their audience to call in and share who in their office would be the most likely candidate to perform a massacre?
Comedy or Distaste?
Say no more... YOU decide
Talking FM changes its TUNE
So audiences now demand comic relief and the end of the day. Driving home, sitting on a bus or riding in an overcrowded train, people don't want music they want The Akmal Show, Hamish & Andy or Will & Lehmo.
Is there now much difference between and FM or AM drive-time shift. They both have talk, talkback and less and less music.
Perhaps its the ipod revolution, myspace and the internet that is allowing audiences to get their own music and not rely on the good old wireless, but why, now does each younger audience music station have a talk-based drive shift?
Music countdowns come-back in during the night-time and the philosophy seems to be less talk, more music while you are at work. Will any of the FM leaders restore a music based format?
The quality of the talent in drive has also picked up with the untested and somewhat politically incorrect comic Akmal Saleh with Kate Ritchie on NOVA. 2DAY have networked the popular Hamish and Andy duo which seems to have the FM drive momentum.
Triple M have answered the cry on April 2, installing former Glass House and Triple J breakfast presenter Wil Anderson to their drive shift with former SAFM breakfast anchor Anthony 'Lehmo' Lehman.
In the case of the first two, Akmal and Hamish&Andy will be more comic and probably stupid, while Wil and Lehmo will focus on political and news satire.
But what is funny?
In the aftermath of the University Massacre in the United States last week, Will and Lehmo responded by asking their audience to call in and share who in their office would be the most likely candidate to perform a massacre?
Comedy or Distaste?
Say no more... YOU decide
Is there now much difference between and FM or AM drive-time shift. They both have talk, talkback and less and less music.
Perhaps its the ipod revolution, myspace and the internet that is allowing audiences to get their own music and not rely on the good old wireless, but why, now does each younger audience music station have a talk-based drive shift?
Music countdowns come-back in during the night-time and the philosophy seems to be less talk, more music while you are at work. Will any of the FM leaders restore a music based format?
The quality of the talent in drive has also picked up with the untested and somewhat politically incorrect comic Akmal Saleh with Kate Ritchie on NOVA. 2DAY have networked the popular Hamish and Andy duo which seems to have the FM drive momentum.
Triple M have answered the cry on April 2, installing former Glass House and Triple J breakfast presenter Wil Anderson to their drive shift with former SAFM breakfast anchor Anthony 'Lehmo' Lehman.
In the case of the first two, Akmal and Hamish&Andy will be more comic and probably stupid, while Wil and Lehmo will focus on political and news satire.
But what is funny?
In the aftermath of the University Massacre in the United States last week, Will and Lehmo responded by asking their audience to call in and share who in their office would be the most likely candidate to perform a massacre?
Comedy or Distaste?
Say no more... YOU decide
Sunday, March 11, 2007
What makes news?
Infotainment is the buzz word that news-makers are concerned about because of the perceived preference that audiences what light-hearted, information and entertainment instead of the harder, more serious news.
The changes witnessed in all forms of media, such as the casual more chatty Sunrise breakfast television program which now outrates rival Today is one example of the changing nature and interest of audience.
Even radio, with 2UE's Mike and Fitz Breakfast Show being more light hearted than rival Alan Jones. But why are audiences so interested in this 'coffee chat' gossip?
Britney Spears latest movements, the Anna Nicole-Smith saga and even the movements of Mercedes Corby are all news items that radio, television and newspapers place high emphasis on reporting.
It's not news - it's gossip. So what is news?
There is a continual decline in interst in international news stories or a crisis in a remote region. Surely there are more pressing issues than Britney's head being shaved.
Audience's lack of interest in wars in the middle east, regional pacific unrest and even aids in Africa is a poor reflection on the dumbing down of society.
We are isolating ourselves, becoming arrogant and to overly concerned in celebrity gossip, that we are becoming less inteligent.
A stronger focus on international news is needed to place ourselves in society so that we do not get to wrapped up in ourselves and our own little world.
The changes witnessed in all forms of media, such as the casual more chatty Sunrise breakfast television program which now outrates rival Today is one example of the changing nature and interest of audience.
Even radio, with 2UE's Mike and Fitz Breakfast Show being more light hearted than rival Alan Jones. But why are audiences so interested in this 'coffee chat' gossip?
Britney Spears latest movements, the Anna Nicole-Smith saga and even the movements of Mercedes Corby are all news items that radio, television and newspapers place high emphasis on reporting.
It's not news - it's gossip. So what is news?
There is a continual decline in interst in international news stories or a crisis in a remote region. Surely there are more pressing issues than Britney's head being shaved.
Audience's lack of interest in wars in the middle east, regional pacific unrest and even aids in Africa is a poor reflection on the dumbing down of society.
We are isolating ourselves, becoming arrogant and to overly concerned in celebrity gossip, that we are becoming less inteligent.
A stronger focus on international news is needed to place ourselves in society so that we do not get to wrapped up in ourselves and our own little world.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Seven makes it 2/2
Week 2 of the television ratings and its appearing that it could be ‘7 in 07’. The crop of American dramas, aggressive Sunday night programming and a new installment of the successful Dancing With the Stars and Nine programmers would be getting worried.
Week 1 saw Seven defeat Nine by 0.1%, without a Sunday night line-up of Australia’s Got Talent, Ugly Betty and Grey’s Anatomy. With Week 2’s results being just released, Seven convincingly won by 4.8% capturing 31.0% of the audience with Nine behind on 26.2% and Ten struggling with 20.8%.
Seven’s ‘Beautiful Sunday’ will be tested tonight when mile-high airhostess tells 60 Minutes reporter Peter Overton about her sex romp with Ralph Finnes. Will 60 Minutes claw back from Seven’s most popular show, Ugly Betty who scored over two million viewers in its first week.
Nine must be concerned that Seven has launched an aggressive and so far successful Sunday night which sees Seven dominate all nights bar Thursday, which Nine hold strong with high-rating RPA and Missing Persons Unit.
The worry for Seven is it’s Thursday with poor returns for How I Met Your Mother, which has seen the formerly successful My Name is Earl and Lost underperforming and Bones struggling to make headways.
If Seven get Thursdays right, then Nine will be demoralised. Nine will be disappointed with their underperforming dramas and the much anticipated The Code: Crime and Justice failing to draw the audiences that would rival Border Security, while 1 V 100 ratings continue to fall.
Ten seem to have got it wrong with their big local productions, The Con Test and Celebrity Dog School and The Biggest Loser not living up to their expectations. The head of programming David Mott would have to be concerned with the current performance of Ten.
Just how long until the first scheduling changes will be made at the three major networks? Will Nine gamble with The Lost Tribes, Mania and Sea Patrol to try and turn around their fortune or will it be ‘7 in 07’?
Week 1 saw Seven defeat Nine by 0.1%, without a Sunday night line-up of Australia’s Got Talent, Ugly Betty and Grey’s Anatomy. With Week 2’s results being just released, Seven convincingly won by 4.8% capturing 31.0% of the audience with Nine behind on 26.2% and Ten struggling with 20.8%.
Seven’s ‘Beautiful Sunday’ will be tested tonight when mile-high airhostess tells 60 Minutes reporter Peter Overton about her sex romp with Ralph Finnes. Will 60 Minutes claw back from Seven’s most popular show, Ugly Betty who scored over two million viewers in its first week.
Nine must be concerned that Seven has launched an aggressive and so far successful Sunday night which sees Seven dominate all nights bar Thursday, which Nine hold strong with high-rating RPA and Missing Persons Unit.
The worry for Seven is it’s Thursday with poor returns for How I Met Your Mother, which has seen the formerly successful My Name is Earl and Lost underperforming and Bones struggling to make headways.
If Seven get Thursdays right, then Nine will be demoralised. Nine will be disappointed with their underperforming dramas and the much anticipated The Code: Crime and Justice failing to draw the audiences that would rival Border Security, while 1 V 100 ratings continue to fall.
Ten seem to have got it wrong with their big local productions, The Con Test and Celebrity Dog School and The Biggest Loser not living up to their expectations. The head of programming David Mott would have to be concerned with the current performance of Ten.
Just how long until the first scheduling changes will be made at the three major networks? Will Nine gamble with The Lost Tribes, Mania and Sea Patrol to try and turn around their fortune or will it be ‘7 in 07’?
Monday, February 12, 2007
And they're off...
The 2007 ratings season for televison kicked off last night with hype, fanfare and predictions that Channel Seven will actually become number 1 in 07. The year has been set up as the closest yet with Seven having the crop of US series plus the highest rating local produce should see the network take poll position for the year.
Seven have launched a killer scheduele across the major rating days Sunday – Thursday squeezing Desperate Housewives, Lost, Prison Break, Dancing With the Stars and Border Security into the market along with hopefuls Hereos, Ugly Betty and Brothers and Sisters. 7 now have a challenge worthy Sunday night with Ugly Betty and Grey’s Anatomy squaring off with 60 Minutes and CSI, the leaders of Sunday night.
Over zealous programming by Seven may however be a downfall, with so many good shows on now – what will be broadcast in the second half of the year?
Nine will be backing their Sunday success with 20 to 1 repeats, 60 Minutes and CSI to hold their mantle as Number 1 on Sundays. Seven poses a real threat and Ten with Big Brother and Australian Idol later this year will also make Sundays the one to watch.
Quiz shows are also the flavor for 2007 with Seven’s The Rich List looking competitive against Nine’s 1 V 100. The ratings for both have been impressive just far, but how long can it last?
Ten has chipped in with The Con Test but this seems destined to fail and will be pulled within a few episodes.
Nine are backing their CSI franchise, Without A Trace, Cold Case, McLeods Daughters, RPA, Missing Persons Unit, Getaway, Whats Good For You who all pull good ratings to be the backbone of the Nine schedule in 2007. Don’t forget Hotel Babylon returns for a short and sweet second season which is a top-rating drama.
Experimenting with new programs such as 1 v 100, The Lost Tribes, Mania, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, Kidnapped and Sea Patrol all appear to be gambles. For a start, Studio and Kidnapped have all ready been cancelled in the US this year.
Justice on the other hand another series that has been cancelled shows potential as quick speed, high profile legal drama sure to cause a stir in the ratings. This is my bolter for 2007 and the concept Mania which debuted as Abbamania last year hosted by Richard Wilkins and Bec Hewitt, but there are a few flops too.
Australia’s Got Talent will not get off the ground. This looks like any other talent show and I will be surprised if it rates.
The Lost Tribes is a terrible concept for a show, another reality television mistake that Nine should never have commissioned. It makes you wonder if it will debut much like the promotion of Rome and Invasion (which was never seen) in 2006.
Seven have the power and the scheduling to win 2007. Nine will bank on familiarity and its unparalleled ability to have ‘the big news stories’ and leading coverage of sport.
Losing the AFL to Seven and Ten could hurt Nine badly as a number of South-Western state audiences will be lost.
It’s shaping up as a huge year in 2007 and we as the audiences can only benefit from better quality television as the networks compete for ratings glory.
Seven have launched a killer scheduele across the major rating days Sunday – Thursday squeezing Desperate Housewives, Lost, Prison Break, Dancing With the Stars and Border Security into the market along with hopefuls Hereos, Ugly Betty and Brothers and Sisters. 7 now have a challenge worthy Sunday night with Ugly Betty and Grey’s Anatomy squaring off with 60 Minutes and CSI, the leaders of Sunday night.
Over zealous programming by Seven may however be a downfall, with so many good shows on now – what will be broadcast in the second half of the year?
Nine will be backing their Sunday success with 20 to 1 repeats, 60 Minutes and CSI to hold their mantle as Number 1 on Sundays. Seven poses a real threat and Ten with Big Brother and Australian Idol later this year will also make Sundays the one to watch.
Quiz shows are also the flavor for 2007 with Seven’s The Rich List looking competitive against Nine’s 1 V 100. The ratings for both have been impressive just far, but how long can it last?
Ten has chipped in with The Con Test but this seems destined to fail and will be pulled within a few episodes.
Nine are backing their CSI franchise, Without A Trace, Cold Case, McLeods Daughters, RPA, Missing Persons Unit, Getaway, Whats Good For You who all pull good ratings to be the backbone of the Nine schedule in 2007. Don’t forget Hotel Babylon returns for a short and sweet second season which is a top-rating drama.
Experimenting with new programs such as 1 v 100, The Lost Tribes, Mania, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, Kidnapped and Sea Patrol all appear to be gambles. For a start, Studio and Kidnapped have all ready been cancelled in the US this year.
Justice on the other hand another series that has been cancelled shows potential as quick speed, high profile legal drama sure to cause a stir in the ratings. This is my bolter for 2007 and the concept Mania which debuted as Abbamania last year hosted by Richard Wilkins and Bec Hewitt, but there are a few flops too.
Australia’s Got Talent will not get off the ground. This looks like any other talent show and I will be surprised if it rates.
The Lost Tribes is a terrible concept for a show, another reality television mistake that Nine should never have commissioned. It makes you wonder if it will debut much like the promotion of Rome and Invasion (which was never seen) in 2006.
Seven have the power and the scheduling to win 2007. Nine will bank on familiarity and its unparalleled ability to have ‘the big news stories’ and leading coverage of sport.
Losing the AFL to Seven and Ten could hurt Nine badly as a number of South-Western state audiences will be lost.
It’s shaping up as a huge year in 2007 and we as the audiences can only benefit from better quality television as the networks compete for ratings glory.
Friday, February 02, 2007
Four seasons play on one day
Cricket has always been defined as a summer sport. Likewise rugby is a winter sport.
Tonight the Super 14 Provincial rugby tournament featuring Australia, New Zealand and South African provinces commences and it’s the start of February – yes SUMMER.
It isn’t even Autumn yet and we are playing rugby. It is becoming greedy of sports administrators to start and complicate various codes in their unnatural weather environments.
Players will find playing in Australian summer’s difficult and heat exhaustion, dehydration, hyperthermia are all heath concerns to playing rugby at this time of year.
It is also not a strong marketing strategy as fans are not interested in the rugby season now anyway. Cricket is still going strong and for school children the second half of their season is yet to commence whilst television will be screening rugby.
I understand it is a busy calendar 2007 for rugby with a world cup, a super 14 competition and launch of the Australian Provincial Championship. The administration of rugby is all ready in shambles and this only further exacerbates the point.
There is too much rugby and we are trying to squeeze too much into one year. The annual tri nations featuring the Wallabies, the Springboks and the All Blacks should not have been contested this year.
Instead rugby is seeing the threat of soccer (which might I add also plays a traditional winter sport in summer), as well as the threats from AFL and League.
If sports administrators returned to a traditional calendar for their codes then even on the local level, councils would not have as many issues in fighting for grounds. Cricket season runs from October through till the end of March – the summer season. Whilst Rugby and the winter season has April – September.
Keep it like that
Tonight the Super 14 Provincial rugby tournament featuring Australia, New Zealand and South African provinces commences and it’s the start of February – yes SUMMER.
It isn’t even Autumn yet and we are playing rugby. It is becoming greedy of sports administrators to start and complicate various codes in their unnatural weather environments.
Players will find playing in Australian summer’s difficult and heat exhaustion, dehydration, hyperthermia are all heath concerns to playing rugby at this time of year.
It is also not a strong marketing strategy as fans are not interested in the rugby season now anyway. Cricket is still going strong and for school children the second half of their season is yet to commence whilst television will be screening rugby.
I understand it is a busy calendar 2007 for rugby with a world cup, a super 14 competition and launch of the Australian Provincial Championship. The administration of rugby is all ready in shambles and this only further exacerbates the point.
There is too much rugby and we are trying to squeeze too much into one year. The annual tri nations featuring the Wallabies, the Springboks and the All Blacks should not have been contested this year.
Instead rugby is seeing the threat of soccer (which might I add also plays a traditional winter sport in summer), as well as the threats from AFL and League.
If sports administrators returned to a traditional calendar for their codes then even on the local level, councils would not have as many issues in fighting for grounds. Cricket season runs from October through till the end of March – the summer season. Whilst Rugby and the winter season has April – September.
Keep it like that
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Mundine: The Man, The Mouth
Anthony ‘the man’ Mundine has now gone to far. I was one person who stood up, supported ‘the man’ through his boxing career and could see some sense in his idiotic comments on Australian life.
The mouth has gotten Mundine into trouble before but his latest effort to release a rap song that condemns our very own Government – burning photos of Prime Minister John Howard and the union jack, are not only un-Australian by causing further racial tension.
Mundine claims that the ‘burning’ is a stab at the Government who have oppressed ‘his people’ forever and the flag does not represent the Aborigines culture.
Regardless of Mundine’s comments there are other ways to go about things rather than shooting his mouth off before thinking and committing this disrespectful act to his own country.
If ‘the man’ wants to continue his boxing crusade he should shut his mouth and let his fists do the talking. Mundine is an ambassador for the indigenous Australians and he is not acting like a leader or a speaker for his people.
Sure, in the past I have supported his athletic prowess and believe some of his comments were stupid but they were getting the message across. This latest act has gone to far and it is time for Mundine to be silenced.
The mouth has gotten Mundine into trouble before but his latest effort to release a rap song that condemns our very own Government – burning photos of Prime Minister John Howard and the union jack, are not only un-Australian by causing further racial tension.
Mundine claims that the ‘burning’ is a stab at the Government who have oppressed ‘his people’ forever and the flag does not represent the Aborigines culture.
Regardless of Mundine’s comments there are other ways to go about things rather than shooting his mouth off before thinking and committing this disrespectful act to his own country.
If ‘the man’ wants to continue his boxing crusade he should shut his mouth and let his fists do the talking. Mundine is an ambassador for the indigenous Australians and he is not acting like a leader or a speaker for his people.
Sure, in the past I have supported his athletic prowess and believe some of his comments were stupid but they were getting the message across. This latest act has gone to far and it is time for Mundine to be silenced.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
What topic could be next made into a reality television show?
How about mixing Paris Hilton, Jenna Jameson and 10 male virgins and what do you get? “Virgin Territory”.
That’s right Kevin Blatt a well known adult entertainment producer is developing the new reality series featuring Paris and Jenna as possible hosts or coaches.
Blatt is the man who distributed Hilton’s infamous porno, “One Night In Paris”, so the bizarre turn of events may end up seeing Hilton working with Blatt.
The show will feature 10 virgins who compete in challenges such as the “STD spelling bee” and the one who scores the lowest will be eliminated.
When there is one virgin left he will have to chose one of five a-list pornstars to whom he will lose his virginity to. Entrepreneur Bratt will film the ‘sexual encounter’ and distribute it through an adult entertainment company.
It makes you wonder where the boundaries of television, content and more broadly our own morals and ethics are. The development of this project is not only alarming, but distasteful and disgusting.
Audiences and ratings will not be a problem as I can guarantee a huge number of people would watch this program and the threat is that it could become the norm.
Cheap production costs and the increase in reality television is causing havoc amongst the social conscious. Just last year Prime Minister John Howard called for the axing of the distasteful “Big Brother” following the “Camilla Turkey Slapping Incident”.
I hope this program is never made and if it is, we do not see it here. We need to have some standard of ethics and morals and clearly this program does not meet any standards.
That’s right Kevin Blatt a well known adult entertainment producer is developing the new reality series featuring Paris and Jenna as possible hosts or coaches.
Blatt is the man who distributed Hilton’s infamous porno, “One Night In Paris”, so the bizarre turn of events may end up seeing Hilton working with Blatt.
The show will feature 10 virgins who compete in challenges such as the “STD spelling bee” and the one who scores the lowest will be eliminated.
When there is one virgin left he will have to chose one of five a-list pornstars to whom he will lose his virginity to. Entrepreneur Bratt will film the ‘sexual encounter’ and distribute it through an adult entertainment company.
It makes you wonder where the boundaries of television, content and more broadly our own morals and ethics are. The development of this project is not only alarming, but distasteful and disgusting.
Audiences and ratings will not be a problem as I can guarantee a huge number of people would watch this program and the threat is that it could become the norm.
Cheap production costs and the increase in reality television is causing havoc amongst the social conscious. Just last year Prime Minister John Howard called for the axing of the distasteful “Big Brother” following the “Camilla Turkey Slapping Incident”.
I hope this program is never made and if it is, we do not see it here. We need to have some standard of ethics and morals and clearly this program does not meet any standards.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
What will 2UE be like when John Laws leaves?
This post is all speculation and only my op-inion.
We saw the summer break meant a time for change at 2UE. Not only had Ken Sparkes the voice-over artist for four decades been shown the door but Stan Zemanek, ‘the king’ of night-time radio left the St. Leonards radio station to the Prime Minister announcing he was ‘rooting’ for him.
Now we enter a new year minus Zemanek and with a new voice over artist to complaints of loyal 2UE listeners. It’s a sign that the guard is definitely changing and with a summer schedule that pleased the accountant – cutting one day time shift from its day and adding an extra hour to the breakfast, drive and the combining of mornings and afternoons.
It’s a big year for 2UE. Will the Mike and Fitz breakfast experiment pay off? Will John Laws be heard on the radio more often than not and can a new night time presenter be found for evenings that will rival Brian Wilshere on 2GB.
Alan Jones may take a dive in the ratings after Chris Masters released Jones Town which could unearth the AM leader. One thing is for sure, the changes at 2UE are moving towards cleaning out its line-up.
Steve Price and John Stanley experimented with tag team broadcasting in breakfast while Mike and Fitz took lunch so they may be looking at combining their shows when the station considers the revamp post the John Laws era.
Southern Cross look keen to cut-costs noted with the shedding of news staff last year and the move to have three daytime shifts over summer instead of four. Tag team broadcasting would not assist cost cutting with two salaries needed instead of one.
Perhaps nationally syndicated shows may be the go for southern cross through daytime. Breakfast and Drive need to be local but John Laws is heard right around the country. 2UE could look at Neil Mitchell (the John Laws of Melbourne) doing a syndicated show that would include 2UE mornings.
Or perhaps Laws own 2UE rival, Steve Price. Price would be no stranger to Melbourne audiences and held number 1 in drive, which he is yet to achieve in Sydney. A move to the morning shift could see both Melbourne and Sydney audiences satisfied as well as Southern Cross executives.
Southern Cross have shown some signs for the future. A typical 2UE line-up in the post Laws era could look something like this:
6-10: Mike and Fitz
10-2: Tim Webster
2-6: Price and Stanley
6-8: Sports Today
8-12: Clive Robertson
12-6: Stuart Bocking
We saw the summer break meant a time for change at 2UE. Not only had Ken Sparkes the voice-over artist for four decades been shown the door but Stan Zemanek, ‘the king’ of night-time radio left the St. Leonards radio station to the Prime Minister announcing he was ‘rooting’ for him.
Now we enter a new year minus Zemanek and with a new voice over artist to complaints of loyal 2UE listeners. It’s a sign that the guard is definitely changing and with a summer schedule that pleased the accountant – cutting one day time shift from its day and adding an extra hour to the breakfast, drive and the combining of mornings and afternoons.
It’s a big year for 2UE. Will the Mike and Fitz breakfast experiment pay off? Will John Laws be heard on the radio more often than not and can a new night time presenter be found for evenings that will rival Brian Wilshere on 2GB.
Alan Jones may take a dive in the ratings after Chris Masters released Jones Town which could unearth the AM leader. One thing is for sure, the changes at 2UE are moving towards cleaning out its line-up.
Steve Price and John Stanley experimented with tag team broadcasting in breakfast while Mike and Fitz took lunch so they may be looking at combining their shows when the station considers the revamp post the John Laws era.
Southern Cross look keen to cut-costs noted with the shedding of news staff last year and the move to have three daytime shifts over summer instead of four. Tag team broadcasting would not assist cost cutting with two salaries needed instead of one.
Perhaps nationally syndicated shows may be the go for southern cross through daytime. Breakfast and Drive need to be local but John Laws is heard right around the country. 2UE could look at Neil Mitchell (the John Laws of Melbourne) doing a syndicated show that would include 2UE mornings.
Or perhaps Laws own 2UE rival, Steve Price. Price would be no stranger to Melbourne audiences and held number 1 in drive, which he is yet to achieve in Sydney. A move to the morning shift could see both Melbourne and Sydney audiences satisfied as well as Southern Cross executives.
Southern Cross have shown some signs for the future. A typical 2UE line-up in the post Laws era could look something like this:
6-10: Mike and Fitz
10-2: Tim Webster
2-6: Price and Stanley
6-8: Sports Today
8-12: Clive Robertson
12-6: Stuart Bocking
Monday, January 29, 2007
Rating this Years Radio
The real radio ratings year has started today as the benchwarmers have left the microphones and the big guns have returned. Golden Tonsils John Laws and new brekkie hosts The Shebang rejoined Alan Jones, Kyle & Jackie O who returned last week.
But who will dominate the ultimate breakfast slot this year on AM? Will the handicap match featuring the tag team of Mike & Fitz on 2UE dethrone AJ on 2GB. Has the Chris Master’s biography had an affect on the Brekkie stalwart? Or will Adam Spencer, the unlikely breakfast host on Aunty continue to improve his ratings and become a real alternative, once again to the commercial networks?
Can Kyle and Jackie O be King and Queen of the FM band in 2007 or can Merrick and Rosso claw their way back to the top? Perhaps this is the break that The Shebang need and may become the new brekkie leaders in the Sydney FM market.
Will VEGA still exist by the end of 2007? With a merry-go-round program changes taking affect a new breakfast show has been formed adding Mikey Robins to Tone, Ange and Bec.
While VEGA have increased the number of breakfast presenters by 400%, MIX has slimmed down over the summer break. Alan Brough has been the casualty of the troubled breakfast show as Sammy and Subby return.
Breakfast is not only experiencing a challenging time but so is Drive with the three major FM brand launching new talk-based drive programs. NOVA have had a fair amount of trouble in the drive program with Bianca Dye being moved sideways for Akmal Saleh and Matthew Newton. Only Newton was sacked before his first shift. Now Home and Away star Kate Ritchie joins Akmal on drive from this week.
2DAY FM have also gone the talk with popular and successful duo Hamish and Andy who’s rating results in Melbourne and Brisbane have elevated them to the Sydney market. While Triple M will have to wait until April where Wil Anderson will host the drive shift vacated by The Shebang.
AM drive will be close again with Philip Clark (2GB), Richard Glover (702) and Steve Price (2UE) fighting out the converted 3-6PM slot. Their lead-ins are essential and the pressure will be felt from brekky, right across the day.
Not only are the drive and breakfast shifts going to be closely fought but now interest has stemmed into daytime radio. Tony Martin moves to a two hour lunch time show from 11 with Ed Kavalee on Triple M but also Jono Coleman returns to WSFM with a nationally syndicated show.
The last shift that will be closely scrutinized is night times. Triple M have established talk-based evening programming with Paul Murray and The Spoonman, while NOVA hope that former VJ Jabba will win their evenings. The HOT 30 on 2DAY has a new host Sam Mac while over on AM, 2UE will be looking closely for a replacement for Stan Zemanek.
It’s set up as an interesting and close year for radio ratings. I believe that Triple M will be the big mover on the FM band with The Shebang in breakfast, Tony Martin over lunch and Wil Anderson on drive. The strength over these personalities should see a return to the Rock station.
NOVA breakfast will demise this year and we won’t see Merrick and Rosso again next year. They are tired – still they are some of the best in the business but it’s time for a change. Akmal and Kate Ritchie will be interesting to watch. Up against Hamish and Andy they will find it hard but ‘Sally’ will pull a big female following and younger audiences will tune it – so they could be the surprise packet for radio shows.
With success Akmal and Kate Ritchie could be the new NOVA breakfast team in 2008. I may be jumping the gun but they are my prediction for 2007. Akmal and Kate, along with the talent of Jabba are the only lights in DMG as they are staring at a poor year in Sydney. VEGA has been a massive headache and Merrick & Rosso must be a concern in breakfast.
Meantime the ABC will be the big movers on AM. Adam Spencer is looking good, Virginia Troili has had a year to settle in and Richard Glover has a few good years behind him to make the charge in 07.
Whatever the story is – the year is set up as the closest in recent history. Station executives will be biting their nails to see those first rating results to establish the trend for the year and make sure their bills can be paid and advertisers remain happy. Wait and see…
But who will dominate the ultimate breakfast slot this year on AM? Will the handicap match featuring the tag team of Mike & Fitz on 2UE dethrone AJ on 2GB. Has the Chris Master’s biography had an affect on the Brekkie stalwart? Or will Adam Spencer, the unlikely breakfast host on Aunty continue to improve his ratings and become a real alternative, once again to the commercial networks?
Can Kyle and Jackie O be King and Queen of the FM band in 2007 or can Merrick and Rosso claw their way back to the top? Perhaps this is the break that The Shebang need and may become the new brekkie leaders in the Sydney FM market.
Will VEGA still exist by the end of 2007? With a merry-go-round program changes taking affect a new breakfast show has been formed adding Mikey Robins to Tone, Ange and Bec.
While VEGA have increased the number of breakfast presenters by 400%, MIX has slimmed down over the summer break. Alan Brough has been the casualty of the troubled breakfast show as Sammy and Subby return.
Breakfast is not only experiencing a challenging time but so is Drive with the three major FM brand launching new talk-based drive programs. NOVA have had a fair amount of trouble in the drive program with Bianca Dye being moved sideways for Akmal Saleh and Matthew Newton. Only Newton was sacked before his first shift. Now Home and Away star Kate Ritchie joins Akmal on drive from this week.
2DAY FM have also gone the talk with popular and successful duo Hamish and Andy who’s rating results in Melbourne and Brisbane have elevated them to the Sydney market. While Triple M will have to wait until April where Wil Anderson will host the drive shift vacated by The Shebang.
AM drive will be close again with Philip Clark (2GB), Richard Glover (702) and Steve Price (2UE) fighting out the converted 3-6PM slot. Their lead-ins are essential and the pressure will be felt from brekky, right across the day.
Not only are the drive and breakfast shifts going to be closely fought but now interest has stemmed into daytime radio. Tony Martin moves to a two hour lunch time show from 11 with Ed Kavalee on Triple M but also Jono Coleman returns to WSFM with a nationally syndicated show.
The last shift that will be closely scrutinized is night times. Triple M have established talk-based evening programming with Paul Murray and The Spoonman, while NOVA hope that former VJ Jabba will win their evenings. The HOT 30 on 2DAY has a new host Sam Mac while over on AM, 2UE will be looking closely for a replacement for Stan Zemanek.
It’s set up as an interesting and close year for radio ratings. I believe that Triple M will be the big mover on the FM band with The Shebang in breakfast, Tony Martin over lunch and Wil Anderson on drive. The strength over these personalities should see a return to the Rock station.
NOVA breakfast will demise this year and we won’t see Merrick and Rosso again next year. They are tired – still they are some of the best in the business but it’s time for a change. Akmal and Kate Ritchie will be interesting to watch. Up against Hamish and Andy they will find it hard but ‘Sally’ will pull a big female following and younger audiences will tune it – so they could be the surprise packet for radio shows.
With success Akmal and Kate Ritchie could be the new NOVA breakfast team in 2008. I may be jumping the gun but they are my prediction for 2007. Akmal and Kate, along with the talent of Jabba are the only lights in DMG as they are staring at a poor year in Sydney. VEGA has been a massive headache and Merrick & Rosso must be a concern in breakfast.
Meantime the ABC will be the big movers on AM. Adam Spencer is looking good, Virginia Troili has had a year to settle in and Richard Glover has a few good years behind him to make the charge in 07.
Whatever the story is – the year is set up as the closest in recent history. Station executives will be biting their nails to see those first rating results to establish the trend for the year and make sure their bills can be paid and advertisers remain happy. Wait and see…
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Fixing P-Plate Problems
As the debate continues and tradgically more p-plate youths lose their lives, what can be done to make the roads safer?
Restricting p-plate driver numbers could be an option but making a midnight curfew is not an option. In the instances where p-plate drivers and their passangers have been killed a common thread is involved. Full-cars, late nights and dare I say speed and alcohol are involved.
I am not claiming that the driver has been drinking - I am sure he/she has not as there is zero tollerance but it is still a difficult task driving a car full of drunk mates. Not only are they subconciously egging you on to drive faster, you to want to get home because you haven't been drinking and are some aggitated that you have to drive your mates home.
Certainly it is a hard task at any age but in young drivers it is harder. There are less cars on the road so you feel that you can get home quiker. Combine that with your loud mates and it is a recipe for distaster.
It makes it difficult to drive and concentrate and therefore these horrific crashes occur. Remember with a zero tollerance alcohol policy, amongst youth drinkers they know they therefore cannot drive home and therefore can drink as much as they want.
My solution is to bring in a curfew for p-plate drivers. One passanger can travel with the driver after 10PM in the evening until 6AM the following morning.
The arguments therefore for p-plater's who need to drive home in the early hours because of shifts can and will reduce the problems on designated drivers who have to take their drunk mates home. It is a fair compromise and I think something that could go towards improving the fatalities.
I am in no way suggesting that these circumstances surround the current p-plate crashes but suggest these could be reasons as to why they occur.
Restricting p-plate driver numbers could be an option but making a midnight curfew is not an option. In the instances where p-plate drivers and their passangers have been killed a common thread is involved. Full-cars, late nights and dare I say speed and alcohol are involved.
I am not claiming that the driver has been drinking - I am sure he/she has not as there is zero tollerance but it is still a difficult task driving a car full of drunk mates. Not only are they subconciously egging you on to drive faster, you to want to get home because you haven't been drinking and are some aggitated that you have to drive your mates home.
Certainly it is a hard task at any age but in young drivers it is harder. There are less cars on the road so you feel that you can get home quiker. Combine that with your loud mates and it is a recipe for distaster.
It makes it difficult to drive and concentrate and therefore these horrific crashes occur. Remember with a zero tollerance alcohol policy, amongst youth drinkers they know they therefore cannot drive home and therefore can drink as much as they want.
My solution is to bring in a curfew for p-plate drivers. One passanger can travel with the driver after 10PM in the evening until 6AM the following morning.
The arguments therefore for p-plater's who need to drive home in the early hours because of shifts can and will reduce the problems on designated drivers who have to take their drunk mates home. It is a fair compromise and I think something that could go towards improving the fatalities.
I am in no way suggesting that these circumstances surround the current p-plate crashes but suggest these could be reasons as to why they occur.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Debnam the deadbeat
Does Peter Debnam want to become Premier of New South Wales or does he want to be in opposition for another four years, by which time the Liberal Party would have a new leader anyway?All he has to do is SHUT UP.
His claims today that retiring Attorney-General Bob Debus is under police investigation with no proof, is like falling on your own sword.Labor is self-destructing in the state as it is.
Either Debnam needs proof to his claims or just SHUT UP. He need not say anything as Labor are doing their own damage and losing the election.
Obviously Debnam has poor advisors or the wrong people around, or maybe he lacks intelligence and he is not the right man for the job. Possibly a mixture of the lot.
It is too late for Liberal to change leaders now this close to an election. Debnam and his Party need to stand united offer an alternative for change and release a set of policies that will woo voters from Labor to Liberal.
A fair analysis would say most voters are fed up with the Government. A number of fatal flaws have plagued Morris Iemma, since he took on the role of Premier, following the resignation of Premier Five Star - Bob Carr. He could obviously smell shit about to hit the fan and therefore left, allowing Iemma to pick up the pieces, lose sleep and wonder why he ever took the job on.
The Cross-City Tunnel Fiasco, calling the tunnel boss a "f*** wit" mistakenly on national television. The Orkopolous ordeal, Carl Scully dramas. The riots in Cronulla. It just seems to be going from bad to worse to worse to worse.
Let’s be realistic New South Wales - will rail, housing, health, education slow down at? NO
Will there be fewer cars on the road in one year? NO.
We need action plans NOW. Realistic and achievable plans in five year increments that will develop basic infrastructure.
Would you return the Iemma Government after this ill-fated term in office?
Debman and Liberal need to get their act together. If no alternative Government is provided then we will go through the next four years with stalemate as independents will be voted in and no policy will be made.
SO Mr. Debman my message is simple - stop making deadbeat comments and SHUT UP or make sensible, realistic comments and name policy changes so we can have a change of Government.
His claims today that retiring Attorney-General Bob Debus is under police investigation with no proof, is like falling on your own sword.Labor is self-destructing in the state as it is.
Either Debnam needs proof to his claims or just SHUT UP. He need not say anything as Labor are doing their own damage and losing the election.
Obviously Debnam has poor advisors or the wrong people around, or maybe he lacks intelligence and he is not the right man for the job. Possibly a mixture of the lot.
It is too late for Liberal to change leaders now this close to an election. Debnam and his Party need to stand united offer an alternative for change and release a set of policies that will woo voters from Labor to Liberal.
A fair analysis would say most voters are fed up with the Government. A number of fatal flaws have plagued Morris Iemma, since he took on the role of Premier, following the resignation of Premier Five Star - Bob Carr. He could obviously smell shit about to hit the fan and therefore left, allowing Iemma to pick up the pieces, lose sleep and wonder why he ever took the job on.
The Cross-City Tunnel Fiasco, calling the tunnel boss a "f*** wit" mistakenly on national television. The Orkopolous ordeal, Carl Scully dramas. The riots in Cronulla. It just seems to be going from bad to worse to worse to worse.
Let’s be realistic New South Wales - will rail, housing, health, education slow down at? NO
Will there be fewer cars on the road in one year? NO.
We need action plans NOW. Realistic and achievable plans in five year increments that will develop basic infrastructure.
Would you return the Iemma Government after this ill-fated term in office?
Debman and Liberal need to get their act together. If no alternative Government is provided then we will go through the next four years with stalemate as independents will be voted in and no policy will be made.
SO Mr. Debman my message is simple - stop making deadbeat comments and SHUT UP or make sensible, realistic comments and name policy changes so we can have a change of Government.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Dad's Army will still kick the Poms ass
Despite Ian Botham's recent comments that, 'losing to dad's army would be piss poor' (refereing to Australia and England's battle for next week's Ashes) Australia will still defeat England and retain the Ashes this summer.
Age is not a worry. Experience is the difference and speaks for itself.
Despite the fact Australia lost last year's Ashes, we only just lost it. Be realistic, if McGrath had not rolled his ankle, if we had scored four more runs. We would have won the Ashes.
The last 18 months have seen Australia improve and England well, not do to much. Nevertheless the series will be competitive and form means nothing when the Ashes is on the line.
Australia's biggest challenge will be picking the best XI. With a number of options, who will bat at Number 6 and who will be the fourth specialist bowler?
Despite writing that Bracken and Watson had played their way into the 1st test, this week will all but confirm my claims with Pura Cup and tour matches across the country.
Shaun Tait has stood tall with a menacing spell against the Poms in the PM's XI. The fastest bowler in the country was devistating and put the Poms on the backfoot immediately. If he is on target, he could single handedly destroy the English top order.
Phil Jacques is batting himself into form, continually knocking on the selectors doors with two centuries against the poms in three days.
Australian captain Ricky Ponting has stated Langer's position is not under threat and the incumbent will be returned as opener for the first test.
With so many possibilities. I am glad that I don't wear a selectors hat and have to make the tough calls.
So which names will be read out and the end of the week? Possibly Jacques could be used in the six batsmen, not as a specialist opener?
Michael Clarke has still not performed with 50 against the Poms while Watson got a duck.
Why not choose Jacques?
In the bowling stocks Mitchell Johnson picked a valuable four wicket haul against the WACAs while Tait's chances were done no harm with his game for the PMXI.
As of Monday November 13, my Australian XI now reads:
1. Justin Langer
2. Matthew Hayden
3. Ricky Ponting
4. Phil Jacques
5. Damien Martyn
6. Michael Hussey
7. Adam Gilchrist
8. Shane Warne
9. Brett Lee
10. Shaun Tait
11. Glen McGrath
12th Nathan Bracken
Age is not a worry. Experience is the difference and speaks for itself.
Despite the fact Australia lost last year's Ashes, we only just lost it. Be realistic, if McGrath had not rolled his ankle, if we had scored four more runs. We would have won the Ashes.
The last 18 months have seen Australia improve and England well, not do to much. Nevertheless the series will be competitive and form means nothing when the Ashes is on the line.
Australia's biggest challenge will be picking the best XI. With a number of options, who will bat at Number 6 and who will be the fourth specialist bowler?
Despite writing that Bracken and Watson had played their way into the 1st test, this week will all but confirm my claims with Pura Cup and tour matches across the country.
Shaun Tait has stood tall with a menacing spell against the Poms in the PM's XI. The fastest bowler in the country was devistating and put the Poms on the backfoot immediately. If he is on target, he could single handedly destroy the English top order.
Phil Jacques is batting himself into form, continually knocking on the selectors doors with two centuries against the poms in three days.
Australian captain Ricky Ponting has stated Langer's position is not under threat and the incumbent will be returned as opener for the first test.
With so many possibilities. I am glad that I don't wear a selectors hat and have to make the tough calls.
So which names will be read out and the end of the week? Possibly Jacques could be used in the six batsmen, not as a specialist opener?
Michael Clarke has still not performed with 50 against the Poms while Watson got a duck.
Why not choose Jacques?
In the bowling stocks Mitchell Johnson picked a valuable four wicket haul against the WACAs while Tait's chances were done no harm with his game for the PMXI.
As of Monday November 13, my Australian XI now reads:
1. Justin Langer
2. Matthew Hayden
3. Ricky Ponting
4. Phil Jacques
5. Damien Martyn
6. Michael Hussey
7. Adam Gilchrist
8. Shane Warne
9. Brett Lee
10. Shaun Tait
11. Glen McGrath
12th Nathan Bracken
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Labor or Liberal? Who will next Govern NSW
Does our country still have any decent human beings in politics? It's a tough job but you have an obligation if you wish to be a representative of your people.
The Peter Reith phone fiasco chased a decent man out of Federal Parliament a few years ago until now, when Labor MP for NSW Milton Orkopoulos has been sacked over child sex allegations.
This is the most disgraceful allegation and makes you wonder how this person was ever a representative of his people?
I have no time or sympathy for these allegations and if proven true then he should not be given any special privileges nor should he have any entitlements as regular parliamentarians would get.
Turning to the Labor vs. Liberal showdown for state governance who will win?
Iemma and his mob are in tatters. Carl Scully gone - a party in disarray. Cross city tunnel damage. Roads. Tolls. Education. Hospitals.
Its time for change and its time for a new government but is the Liberal Party any better? Debman is raw and new to the job. He has not released any policies. He just plays the opposite card to the Government on every policy issue.
Bickering continues to haunt the Liberals who have inter-party issues with the Right Wing assuming control. While the Party is unstable how could the voters have any confidence to vote them into power?
The underlying question is why then are there no decent people in politics? It is just that politics.
Whether it is between two parties or within the party, egos and agendas always come first as voters are seen as numbers, not participants in the electoral process.
Can we have some sensible, intelligent people going into politics? What is needed to get better representatives running our states and country? Why don't people want to go into Politics?
We couldn't get a worse bunch than we have at the moment and let's hope the problems of the past few months have weeded out the thorns so we can develop and sustain the social and economic issues of this state
The Peter Reith phone fiasco chased a decent man out of Federal Parliament a few years ago until now, when Labor MP for NSW Milton Orkopoulos has been sacked over child sex allegations.
This is the most disgraceful allegation and makes you wonder how this person was ever a representative of his people?
I have no time or sympathy for these allegations and if proven true then he should not be given any special privileges nor should he have any entitlements as regular parliamentarians would get.
Turning to the Labor vs. Liberal showdown for state governance who will win?
Iemma and his mob are in tatters. Carl Scully gone - a party in disarray. Cross city tunnel damage. Roads. Tolls. Education. Hospitals.
Its time for change and its time for a new government but is the Liberal Party any better? Debman is raw and new to the job. He has not released any policies. He just plays the opposite card to the Government on every policy issue.
Bickering continues to haunt the Liberals who have inter-party issues with the Right Wing assuming control. While the Party is unstable how could the voters have any confidence to vote them into power?
The underlying question is why then are there no decent people in politics? It is just that politics.
Whether it is between two parties or within the party, egos and agendas always come first as voters are seen as numbers, not participants in the electoral process.
Can we have some sensible, intelligent people going into politics? What is needed to get better representatives running our states and country? Why don't people want to go into Politics?
We couldn't get a worse bunch than we have at the moment and let's hope the problems of the past few months have weeded out the thorns so we can develop and sustain the social and economic issues of this state
Monday, November 06, 2006
Bracken & Watson play their way into the Ashes
Nathan Bracken and Shane Watson completed match winning performances in last night's ICC Champions Trophy final. Bracken, a test discard and Watson who has promised so much but yet to deliver gave selectors their strongest indictaion yet that they are ready and the best men for the two available positions.
Bracken had a stella tournament, partnering Lee with the new ball and proving most useful bowling in the death. With 10 wickets at 19.4 for the tournament, he could not have done more to press his claims. The prize wickets of Chris Gayle, Shiv Chanderpaul and Ramnaresh Sarwan last night, came at crucial times and turned the dimension of the game in Australia's way.
Not to be out done, Watson claimed 2/11 off his three overs and then added 57 runs not out as opening batsmen. Watson has proven himself this tournament and with this momentem should be instated to the test XI for the Ashes.
Shaun Tait put another spanner in the works, with an impressive bowling display for South Australia against New South Wales in the Pura Cup. Along with Jason Gillespie, the two were devestating, having NSW 4/1 in their second innings.
The biggest headache for the Poms would have to be the emphatic return of Glenn McGrath. Doubted by some, after a slow start to the Champions Trophy, the spear head of Australian fast bowling came back with a bang and grabbed 10 scalps at 15.80.
Damien Martyn has also found form with the bat, being the most impressive batsmen of the Australians in India and will look to take this form into the Ashes. With an average of 80.33 for the tournament, he will restore the Australian middle order.
With this in mind, my Australia XI for the 1st test against England in Brisbane would be:
1. Justin Langer
2. Matthew Hayden
3. Ricky Ponting (c)
4. Damien Martyn
5. Michael Hussey
6. Shane Watson
7. Adam Gilchrist
8. Shane Warne
9. Brett Lee
10. Nathan Bracken
11. Glenn McGrath
12th Man: Shaun Tait
Bracken had a stella tournament, partnering Lee with the new ball and proving most useful bowling in the death. With 10 wickets at 19.4 for the tournament, he could not have done more to press his claims. The prize wickets of Chris Gayle, Shiv Chanderpaul and Ramnaresh Sarwan last night, came at crucial times and turned the dimension of the game in Australia's way.
Not to be out done, Watson claimed 2/11 off his three overs and then added 57 runs not out as opening batsmen. Watson has proven himself this tournament and with this momentem should be instated to the test XI for the Ashes.
Shaun Tait put another spanner in the works, with an impressive bowling display for South Australia against New South Wales in the Pura Cup. Along with Jason Gillespie, the two were devestating, having NSW 4/1 in their second innings.
The biggest headache for the Poms would have to be the emphatic return of Glenn McGrath. Doubted by some, after a slow start to the Champions Trophy, the spear head of Australian fast bowling came back with a bang and grabbed 10 scalps at 15.80.
Damien Martyn has also found form with the bat, being the most impressive batsmen of the Australians in India and will look to take this form into the Ashes. With an average of 80.33 for the tournament, he will restore the Australian middle order.
With this in mind, my Australia XI for the 1st test against England in Brisbane would be:
1. Justin Langer
2. Matthew Hayden
3. Ricky Ponting (c)
4. Damien Martyn
5. Michael Hussey
6. Shane Watson
7. Adam Gilchrist
8. Shane Warne
9. Brett Lee
10. Nathan Bracken
11. Glenn McGrath
12th Man: Shaun Tait
Sunday, November 05, 2006
What is the value of representing your country in a test match?
International rugby league is a farse anyway but picking a second string team against Great Britain is arrogant. Ricky Stuart well be answerable to the media, fans and administrators this week as we ask, 'why did you pick a number of reserves in the Kangaroos?'
The honor to represent your country and play a test match should be the ultimate prize but if the ARL are going to hand out test jerseys then Nathan Fien should be entitled to play for the Kiwis. In no way is it the individuals who were picked's fault but rather a young ambitious coach who provided yet another example as to why the Roosters sacked him as coach.
Ricky Stuart selceted a jet lagged, unproven Jamie Lyon. Ok, he may have had a great season playing B Grade League in Great Britian but that is no match to NRL or International League.
Ben Hornby a fantastic custodian for the Dragons but if he is the second best half back in Australia, then we have massive problems. The days where a plethora of talent could be selected from the likes of Brad Fittler, Laurie Daley, Kevin Walters, Allan Langer, Geoff Toovey, Andrew Johns, Greg Alexander, Ricky Stuart, Matthew Johns were fighting tooth and nails to break into the Kangaroos halves combinations.
It comes back to a lack of depth in League, similar to the problems with Union. The bigger problem though is the honor we place on playing test match rugby league.
The series should be cancelled if jumpers are going to be handed to players, and rest others in matches. It's not done by any team, any where by any one unless it is assured of a victory.
ARL were proven wrong, Great Britain are not going to be a pushover and they deserve a lot more respect than the code is giving them.
If we want to be serious about International Rugby League then prove it or can it!
The honor to represent your country and play a test match should be the ultimate prize but if the ARL are going to hand out test jerseys then Nathan Fien should be entitled to play for the Kiwis. In no way is it the individuals who were picked's fault but rather a young ambitious coach who provided yet another example as to why the Roosters sacked him as coach.
Ricky Stuart selceted a jet lagged, unproven Jamie Lyon. Ok, he may have had a great season playing B Grade League in Great Britian but that is no match to NRL or International League.
Ben Hornby a fantastic custodian for the Dragons but if he is the second best half back in Australia, then we have massive problems. The days where a plethora of talent could be selected from the likes of Brad Fittler, Laurie Daley, Kevin Walters, Allan Langer, Geoff Toovey, Andrew Johns, Greg Alexander, Ricky Stuart, Matthew Johns were fighting tooth and nails to break into the Kangaroos halves combinations.
It comes back to a lack of depth in League, similar to the problems with Union. The bigger problem though is the honor we place on playing test match rugby league.
The series should be cancelled if jumpers are going to be handed to players, and rest others in matches. It's not done by any team, any where by any one unless it is assured of a victory.
ARL were proven wrong, Great Britain are not going to be a pushover and they deserve a lot more respect than the code is giving them.
If we want to be serious about International Rugby League then prove it or can it!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)